Automated loading system alignment assembly

Abstract

Examples of an alignment assembly for loading a shipping container are disclosed. In one example implementation according to aspects of the present disclosure, the alignment assembly includes a base rotatably disposed on a pole and an alignment bracket moveably connected to the base. The alignment bracket may include a main support member connected to an alignment member. The alignment bracket is configured to permit the alignment member to be disposed substantially co-planer with a sidewall of the shipping container.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A method for loading a shipping container using an alignment assembly, the method comprising:
 automatically navigating a loading vehicle to the shipping container, the loading vehicle comprising a clamp to secure a pallet on the loading vehicle; 
 engaging the alignment assembly with the clamp of the loading vehicle to align the pallet with the shipping container, the alignment assembly being spaced from the shipping container during a loading operation, the alignment assembly comprising 
 a base connectable to a pole, and 
 an alignment bracket moveably connected to the base, the alignment bracket comprising a main support member connected to an alignment member, wherein the alignment bracket is configured to permit the alignment member to be disposed substantially co-planer with a sidewall of the shipping container; and 
 performing a loading operation to load the pallet onto the shipping container, 
 wherein the clamp comprises a pressure sensor to enable the loading vehicle to determine when the clamp engages the alignment assembly. 
 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 prior to automatically navigating the loading vehicle to the shipping container, receiving the pallet onto the loading vehicle. 
 
     
     
       3. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the loading vehicle is a laser guided loading vehicle. 
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 adjusting the alignment bracket with respect to the base. 
 
     
     
       5. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the alignment assembly is positioned external to the shipping container. 
     
     
       6. The method of  claim 1 , wherein securing the pallet on the loading vehicle comprises securing contents on the pallet.